A Textual Research on the Key Information of the Famous Classical Formula Wendan Decoction Based on Ancient Bibliometric Analysis

Through systematically collating, textual researching and analyzing ancient literatures on Wendan decoction, we sorted out the historical development of Wendan decoction and correctly understood the key issues of its formula composition, chief indications, formula meaning, dosage and drug processing, so as to provide literature data to support the development and modern clinical application of the famous classical formula. The bibliometric method was used to collect the literatures related to Wendan decoction in Chinese medical classics. Therefore, we obtained 197 relevant ancient literatures, involving 84 Chinese medical classics. After analysis and textual researching, it was concluded that Wendan decoction was derived from the lost medical formulary, Ji Yan Fang, written by Yao Sengyuan in the Northern and Southern dynasties. Then that formula, which was transcribed into the medical classics, Qian Jin Yao Fang, by Sun Simiao in the Tang dynasty, consisted of six medicines, namely, Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens, Rhizoma Pinelliae, Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae, Fructus Aurantii Immaturus, Caulis Bambusae in Taenia, and Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae. Besides, its chief indications had been expanded, including insomnia, palpitations, severe palpitations and vomiting. However, the understanding of that formula meaning had varied from generation to generation. All the drugs in Wendan decoction are used in raw form, except for "Rhizoma Pinelliae processed in ginger juice", "Fructus Aurantii Immaturus fried with wheat bran" and "dry-fried Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae". The specific processed method is in accordance with the 2020 edition of the Chinese pharmacopoeia. The reference dosage of Wendan decoction is Rhizoma Pinelliae 10 g, Fructus Aurantii Immaturus 10 g, Caulis Bambusae in Taenia 10 g, Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae 15 g, Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens 20 g and Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae 5 g. In addition, the specific decoction method is decocting medicinal ingredients with 1 600 mL water and taking 400 mL decoction, which was then divided into two portions to be warmed and taken after breakfast and dinner". When taking this decoction, patients should avoid taking cold, greasy and stimulating foods in addition to mutton, seaweed, pakchoi seedling and cerealose.